Man arrested for rape at Kendal Calling Festival

A man was arrested on suspicion of rape at the Kendal Calling Festival.

The man has been released under investigation and the victim is being supported.

The arrest was just one of 12 made during the event over the weekend.

Officers arrested four people on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, and one on suspicion of possession with intent to supply psychoactive substance.

Police also arrested four people on suspicion of burglary of a portacabin and two on suspicion of drug driving,

A further four people were dealt with for possession of Class A drugs, and five for possession of Class B drugs.

There was also one report of a sexual assault, four of common assault, and six reports of theft from a tent – all are under investigation by police.

Cumbria Police has praised its’ dogs and their handlers as the number of drugs offences committed at Kendal Calling dramatically reduced.A total of 14 people were either arrested or dealt with for drugs offences, compared to 54 in 2016.

Chief Inspector Andy Wilkinson said: “Although we did make a number of arrests, this number is relatively small in comparison to the large volume of people who attended the festival, and we are pleased that most had a great time despite the weather conditions.”

A spokesman for Kendal Calling Festival said:“We’re very pleased but not surprised to see a drop in the number of reported crimes, arrests and drugs incidents at Kendal Calling this year. We have a wonderful festival family who really do look out for each other as well as robust measures to prevent drugs getting into the festival site.

“Our work with the Loop has, for the second year, provided an extra layer of safety for those vulnerable to dangerous substances. Initial figures suggest that 50% of people who used the service disposed of their drugs or reduced the amount they intended to take after receiving the results, which is an incredibly encouraging outcome.

“Our whole team is sickened and saddened by the alleged sexual assaults. Absolutely no instance of sexual assault on any level is acceptable, either at festivals or in society as a whole.

“Kendal Calling is committed to supporting any victim, both at the event and following it. This year we have been involved in the creation of a campaign, with the Association of Independent Festivals, which raised awareness and encouraged people to understand what constitutes sexual assault and to report it if it happens.

“Local sexual assault support service The Bridgeway, which operates in Penrith throughout the year, have been present at the festival promoting their support services all weekend and we would advise anyone who is worried about having been sexually assaulted to contact them, even if it’s just for a supportive chat.

“We will, of course, continue to support the Police in their enquiries into these incidents.”